Atomic Nucleus (first year college)

In summary, the conversation discusses how to determine the half life, activity, and function of sixty atomic nuclei that decay under ten days. The data is represented in a graph with time on the x-axis and number of decays on the y-axis. The participants mention the need for additional information, such as the total number of atoms or a decreasing decay rate, to accurately fit an exponential model.
  • #1
Michael1974
4
0
1. If we have sixty atomic nucleus that decay under ten days. How can we figure out their half life, their activity and a function? This graph shows how they decay: http://imgur.com/OSUB2P4

x axis illustrates times given in day, y-axis illustrates number of atomic nucleus decay
2. No equations given.3. I do not know where to start, perhaps by finding decay constant or their activity?

 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Based on that data alone? Forget it. You would either need the total number of atoms, or a clearly reducing decay rate over time to fit an exponential to it.

If it is experimental data, you also need the background rate.
 

Related to Atomic Nucleus (first year college)

1. What is the atomic nucleus?

The atomic nucleus is the dense central part of an atom that contains most of the mass of the atom. It is composed of protons and neutrons, which are held together by the strong nuclear force.

2. How does the structure of the atomic nucleus affect the properties of an element?

The number of protons in the nucleus determines the atomic number of an element, which in turn determines its chemical properties. The number of neutrons can affect the stability of the nucleus and can also determine the different isotopes of an element.

3. Why is the atomic nucleus considered to be the "heart" of an atom?

The atomic nucleus contains most of the mass of an atom and is responsible for the stability and properties of the atom. It also controls the amount of energy released during nuclear reactions.

4. How is the atomic nucleus studied and analyzed?

Scientists use various methods such as particle accelerators, nuclear reactors, and spectroscopy to study and analyze the atomic nucleus. These techniques allow us to understand the structure, properties, and behavior of the nucleus.

5. What are the potential applications of studying the atomic nucleus?

Studying the atomic nucleus has led to advances in many fields such as nuclear energy, medicine, and materials science. It has also helped us gain a better understanding of the fundamental building blocks of matter and the origins of the universe.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
841
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
24
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Back
Top